Glimpse the enduring creativity of a fourth-generation Edo wazao craftsman
1.5 hour private experience
Location: Okegawa City, Saitama Prefecture
Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in your language
A minimum of 2 guests is required to book. Solo participants are welcome but will be charged the 2-person rate
Meet the Master
What you’ll do
Observe the craftsman at work, then receive a tour of the factory grounds. Finally, while receiving an explanation regading the history of the location and the craft, view completed Edo wazao pieces in the showroom, as well as other handcrafted pieces.
Who can attend
Children must be 12+
Availability
Everyday
Session 1 (10:00 - 11:30)
Session 2 (13:30 - 15:00)
What you will take home
An Edo wazao fishing rod crafted in the studio
Access
1 hour and 5 minutes by car from Tokyo Station
35 minutes by car from Omiya Station
Strength and Flexibility
First developed during the Edo period, the Edo wazao—a traditional Japanese bamboo fishing rod—was refined through hands-on experimentation. Fishermen in Edo (now Tokyo) tested various lengths and thicknesses of bamboo to craft rods suited for catching different kinds of fish. Over time, the wazao became a symbol of popular Edo culture. Each fishing rod was coated in lacquer not only to enhance the natural beauty of the bamboo but also to increase its durability and flexibility, allowing it to be preserved and used for generations. At the workshop of a fourth-generation wazao craftsman, the master artisan continues this tradition, skillfully applying lacquer techniques to create finely detailed, one-of-a-kind rods built for catching all kinds of fish. Step into the world of this time-honored craft and experience the resilience and elegance of the Edo wazao.
Cancellation Policy
Please make your booking at least 14 days in advance. See cancellation policy here.
A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.
